Tooth Fillings

We are a mercury-free practice. However, many people still have silver/mercury fillings in their mouths from years past. These fillings are not particularly pleasing to the eye, and we know that by unavoidable design, silver/mercury fillings ultimately result in a weaker tooth structure. Porcelain inlays and Tooth Colored Restorations (onlays) create fillings that are not only beautiful (or unnoticeable) but also add strength to weakened teeth. These restorations are esthetically pleasing and very strong thanks to new bonding technologies.

Disadvantages of Silver fillings:

Silver fillings have many drawbacks. The edges of the silver filling can wear down, become weak or break. This results in the tooth not being protected and lets cavities get started once again. With age, the metal of a silver filling expands, contracts, and can split.

Fortunately, silver fillings can safely be replaced with Tooth-Colored Restorations.

Advantages of Tooth-Colored Restorations

There are many advantages to tooth-colored restorations. Resin onlays are bonded to the teeth creating a tight, superior fit to the natural tooth. Such restorations can be used in instances where much of the tooth structure has been lost. The tooth remains intact and stronger.

Since the resin used in tooth-colored restorations contain fluoride this can help prevent decay. The resin wears like natural teeth and does not require placement at the gum line, which is healthier for your gums!

Replacing Silver Fillings with a Tooth Colored Restoration

Bonding is an alternative to veneers, and can be used as a
restorative procedure for teeth that are chipped, cracked, discolored
or misarranged.

How does it work?

The tooth is prepared for the procedure by lightly etching the surface
and applying a bonding liquid. Once the liquid sets, a plastic resin is
applied and sculpted into the desired shape by the dentist. Once set,
the resin is trimmed, smoothed and polished to a natural appearance.

Considerations

The bonding procedure can often be completed in a single office visit,
and can improve the appearance of a tooth significantly. However, since
the plastic resin used is not as strong as your natural tooth enamel,
it is more likely to stain, chip or break than natural teeth. Bonding
typically lasts three to five years before need of repair.